Tecumseh LV195SE lawn mower engine won't start.

[Dave T S]

Hello,
I have a lawn boy #10685 self propelled mower, with a Tecumseh LV195SE engine, spec 362044D, that will not turn over. There is spark and I see that the primer is operating as it is bringing fuel into the carb. I've replaced the plug, coil, oil and other non related items. I've tried to start it with "starting fluid" and that doesn't do a thing. Could it be low compression? Thanks for your help and idea's.

 

[Dave T S]

Hello,
I have a lawn boy #10685 self propelled mower, with a Tecumseh LV195SE engine, spec 362044D, that will not turn over. There is spark and I see that the primer is operating as it is bringing fuel into the carb. I've replaced the plug, coil, oil and other non related items. I've tried to start it with "starting fluid" and that doesn't do a thing. Could it be low compression? Thanks for your help and idea's.

I've also disconnected the brake wiring, etc, to the coil as to avoid those obstacles up front.

 

[ILENGINE]

May not be a bad idea to check the flywheel key. A sheared key won't start but will still produce spark.

 

[Dave T S]

Thank you. Key is intact. I'd taken a compression measurement and it is at approximately 45 psi. I read that it should be between 90 and 120 psi.

 

[upupandaway]

When it DID run, does the pull cord feel the same or do u find it alot easier to pull now?
With the low compression, and if it was harder to pull when it ran, maybe some dirt is holding the valve open a hair lowering the compression?!?!?
Take off the cyl head and see if the valves are totally closing. When you have it open, turn the blade so piston is at top dead center and both valves are closed. Now, try to turn the valves. If one turns easily, that is your problem and the valve gap needs to be set.

 

[Dave T S]

It never ran for me as I bought it as a project machine.
I'll try your suggestion and get back with you, thanks.

 

[Rivets]

With an engine that old and not running, the first thing I would do is to remove the carb and rebuild it with a new float needle and seat.

 

[Dave T S]

With an engine that old and not running, the first thing I would do is to remove the carb and rebuild it with a new float needle and seat.

Thanks, I did that. had no spark and replaced the coil and plug as there was no spark. Now I have spark but will not turn over.

 

[Dave T S]

Thanks, I did that. had no spark and replaced the coil and plug as there was no spark. Now I have spark but will not turn over.

Thank you for the suggestion.

 

[ILENGINE]

Couldn't of installed the new coil upside down possibly. That can also cause starting issues in some cases.